Queensberry Promotions head Frank Warren has indicated that a potential heavyweight contest between Moses Itauma and Martin Bakole is unlikely to happen as the immediate next step. While discussions about this matchup have previously occurred, with Warren showing interest in the bout for the undefeated Itauma (12-0, 10 KOs), it now appears the promoter is exploring alternative opponents. This shift comes partly because Bakole (21-2-1, 16 KOs) reportedly has his next fight already confirmed.
Bakole has previously built a strong reputation in the heavyweight division, highlighted by his impressive fifth-round stoppage of Jared Anderson last August. However, his more recent performances have been less convincing. In February, a short-notice challenge against Joseph Parker resulted in Bakole being stopped in the second round after suffering a knockdown. More recently, his bout against Efe Ajagba this month concluded in a controversial draw following a performance that was widely seen as underwhelming.
Despite these mixed results, Bakole is seemingly being granted another opportunity soon. His trainer, Billy Nelson, has suggested that due to this upcoming fight, any potential clash with Itauma will need to be postponed.
Meanwhile, the 20-year-old Itauma, who delivered a typical dominant performance with a second-round finish over Mike Balogun on Saturday, is expected to feature on the undercard of the Oleksandr Usyk vs. Daniel Dubois 2 rematch. This event is scheduled for July 19th in London. Although his opponent for that date has yet to be officially announced, Warren has made it clear that it will not be Martin Bakole.
Warren expressed dissatisfaction with the continued speculation surrounding Bakole, specifically referencing his last two fights: a fortunate draw against Ajagba and a definitive knockout loss to Parker. Warren proposed that Bakole should concentrate on winning his next scheduled significant fight before he can be considered a deserving opponent for Itauma.
